This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
Not all courts will accept a letter. Instead, the court might grant a continuance over the phone, or the court could require that you have a representative appear before the judge in your place.
Here are five things all defendants will want to avoid saying to a criminal judge: 'I Did It. ' ... 'They Didn't Tell Me...' ... Expletives. Lies, Lies, Lies. 'I Will Represent Myself.
Tip Three: Avoid Undermining the Case It is often tempting for a person writing a character letter to discuss how the defendant isn't really guilty, how this “isn't like him,” how the defendant only pleaded guilty to the crime to get a better sentence, or even how the jury got it wrong.
Treat the judge's staff with impeccable courtesy. Be prompt. Be prepared and organized. Nothing irritates a judge as much as a lawyer fumbling for papers. Speak loudly and clearly. Respect any time limits set by the judge. Answer a judge's question directly. Don't evade. If you don't know an answer, say so.
I appreciate your thoughtfulness, respect, and fairness throughout my trial. I was convicted of shoplifting, and I plan to own up to my actions and make amends for my mistakes. While I can't go back in time and reverse what I did, you can rest assured that this will never happen again.
Tip Three: Avoid Undermining the Case It is often tempting for a person writing a character letter to discuss how the defendant isn't really guilty, how this “isn't like him,” how the defendant only pleaded guilty to the crime to get a better sentence, or even how the jury got it wrong.
Follow the order of this format, leaving a space in between each section: Your Information (first thing that goes on the inside of the letter) Name. The Date. The Judge's Information. Honorable Judge First Name Last Name. What the Letter Is Going to Address. Salutation. Body. Signature.
Contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for support from a criminal defense attorney. Start with a Clear Introduction. Introduce Yourself and Establish Credibility. Provide Reasons for Leniency. Tell a Story or Give Specific Examples. Provide Your Contact Information. Not the Same as a Motion to Modify a Sentence.
Begin your letter by addressing the judge formally, using ``Honorable (Judge's Name)''. In the opening lines, make sure to mention your case number any pertinent details to help the judge quickly identify your matter.